Ipanema Beach

Type: Active

10Best Says

Holiday Attractions: While Copacabana wins out as the liveliest and most picture-perfect city beach in Rio, Ipanema is easily the more chic of the two neighboring stretches of sand.
Less flanked by high rise hotels... Read More

Holiday Attractions: While Copacabana wins out as the liveliest and most picture-perfect city beach in Rio, Ipanema is easily the more chic of the two neighboring stretches of sand.
Less flanked by high rise hotels than its neighbor, Ipanema is the ideal place to while away the hours just working on that tan and watching the beautiful people glide by. There are scores of kiosks selling tempting food and drink, too.
The towering twin peaks of the Dois Irmaos (two brothers) mountains frames the beach scene in spectacular fashion, and visitors will find the beach informally divided into social groups. Head to Posto Nove (Lifeguard post 9) for a young, hip crowd, or look for the giant rainbow flag if you're looking for gay-friendly sunbathing and socializing.

Spas, Beaches, Romantic Things to Do, Best Attractions & Activities, Outdoor Activities, Sightseeing: While Copacabana wins out as the most picture-perfect city beach in Rio, Ipanema is easily the more chic of the two neighboring stretches of sand.
Less flanked by high rise hotels than its neighbor, Ipanema is the ideal place to while away the hours just working on that tan and watching the beautiful people glide by. There are scores of kiosks selling tempting food and drink, too.
The towering twin peaks of the Dois Irmaos (two brothers) mountains frames the beach scene in spectacular fashion, and visitors will find the beach informally divided into social groups. Head to Posto Nove (Lifeguard post 9) for a young, hip crowd, or look for the giant rainbow flag if you're looking for gay-friendly sunbathing and socializing.

Beaches: "Ipanema is informally divided into social sections that gather at specific ´postos´(lifeguard posts). The most famous is Posto 9, hangout of choice for a young, hip crowd, while there is a designated gay area easily identified by a giant rainbow flag."

Best for Holiday Attractions Because: Nothing says 'holiday' like lounging in the sun on Ipanema beach - especially when it's the depths of winter back home.

Best for Spas Because: Massage chairs line the beachfront, offering a chance to relax and unwind against a backdrop of crashing waves and white sands.

Best for Beaches Because: Considered more chic than neighboring Copacabana, mountain-flanked Ipanema is the hangout of choice for Rio's young and beautiful.

Best for Romantic Things to Do Because: Sunbathe, sip a coconut water and just watch the beautiful people glide by. You'll feel fabulous by association!